Christian support for people in debt

Volunteers with Christmas hampers made up for distribution to residents in financial crisis

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Over four years, the Christians Against Poverty Highland Perthshire Debt Centre has been supporting local people manage their finances and become debt-free.

Unfortunately, the charity states many people leave it until they are at their wits’ end before they ask for help.

However, CAP can give the time and resources needed to support people practically and emotionally as well as helping them find a solution to the problem of debt that they find themselves in.

“Many clients have said that even after the first visit from the local CAP debt coach they felt reassured that there was a solution for them, and that someone was now sharing the load,” explained debt centre manager, Angela Hanvey.

She said the staff at CAP’s head office in Bradford are experts at negotiating with creditors and finding the best solution for each client.

“Everyone is different and CAP’s holistic approach ensures that everyone is treated with respect and supported in a way best suited to them,” commented Pamela Thomson, CAP Community Links coordinator.

“We can meet clients in their own homes and our befrienders go above and beyond in order to support clients while they walk their journey out of debt – sometimes by finding out information for them, or helping them with shopping, taking them out, or just being a listening ear.

“Often clients say that their befriender was a real ‘life-line’ for them during a difficult and dark period.

Pamela continued: “We at CAP are humbled to journey with people until they see light at the end of the tunnel and it’s been a real joy to see lives transformed once people are debt-free and in control of their finances. There is always a way out.”

Over the past four years the Highland Perthshire office in Aberfeldy has seen and supported over 30 individuals and families.

“Of these, eight people are now debt-free and released from the burden of worrying debt and others are working towards this goal,” reported Pamela.

Over 60 volunteers have been mobilised to support CAP either financially or practically.

“Working with referral agencies we have supported those known to us who needed help. For example we managed to stop an eviction, found a new affordable home for a family, helped with food shops, reduced isolation and improved mental well- being.

“Another highlight has been working alongside churches in the area. CAP Highland Perthshire recently also provided Christmas Hampers for over 15 families.

“We look forward to our developing relationship with churches who see a need in their area for the services CAP provide.”

You don’t need to be in debt to contact CAP as it also offers practical help through CAP Money courses for anyone who would like help in managing their finances more effectively.

“We realise that any one of us could find ourselves in financial difficulty – especially if we go through some of the unexpected traumas life can throw at us,” concluded Pamela.